New era for tourism

FIJI Airways CEO Stefan Pichler has been appointed the new chair of Tourism Fiji.

In a statement, Tourism Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the appointment signalled an exciting new era for the tourism industry and the Fijian economy as a whole.

"Stefan Pichler brings an unprecedented level of experience to this role, having held senior positions in the tourism industries of Germany and Australia," he said.

"Coupled with his stewardship of our national airline, he is ideally placed to lead our industry and take it to new heights.

"And his strong commercial background means that not only will Tourism Fiji be placed on a stronger commercial footing but the highest standards of corporate governance will be introduced to safeguard the interests of Fijian taxpayers, who finance its $23-million a year budget."

Mr Pichler said he was fully committed to making the industry the best in the world.